The Obamas Are Installing an Art Gallery at the White House

Barack and Michelle Obama have decided to make a major change at the White House. No, it's not some pimped out, luxurious addition like a new big screen television or Olympic-sized pool: It's a new art gallery. The Obamas will be converting the family dining room on the ground floor of the White House into a contemporary art space.

Designer Michael Smith has been hired to spearhead the project, having previously worked with the Obamas to revamp their private quarters and Oval Office. The room to be renovated, which seats about 130 people, is located behind the State Dining Room, according to TheNew York Post.

This isn't the first time artists have received presidential recognition. Legends like Glenn Ligon, Jasper Johns, and Ed Ruscha already have works displayed at the White House. Of course people will wonder where the money for the renovation is coming from, especially considering the economy is in crap city now. We also recently learned that Kickstarter provides more funding for artists than the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Props to the Obamas for giving the White House a new art flair and supporting artists while doing it. Perhaps strengthening the NEA is the next step.